The chicken rice shop owner is distressed after a drunk man crashed into the store causing over 1.3 million baht in damage. Insurance covered 700,000 baht; the offender agreed to pay 600,000 baht but requested a 10-year installment plan. One month later, no compensation has been received and sales have dropped by over 40%.
On the night of 8 Aug 2026, a man from Lampang lost control of his black Ford Ranger pickup and crashed violently into the Mei Jong Chicken Rice Shop branch 2 on Somphot 700 Years Road, Mae Hia Subdistrict, Chiang Mai. The coffee shop area, sliding metal door, ceiling, coffee machine, cake fridge, counters, tables, chairs, and other equipment were all severely damaged, with the shop's glass shattered.
At the scene, a gray Ford pickup with a damaged front and a flat tire was found. The driver, slightly injured, is from Mueang Lampang District. Authorities took him for questioning and measured his blood alcohol level, which was 176 mg%, exceeding legal limits.
Recently, reporters visited Mei Jong Chicken Rice Shop branch 2 and found few customers. The coffee shop area remains closed and covered with a tarp as compensation has not yet been received from the offender.
Mr. Warakorn Saengsupol Mr. Warakorn Saengsupol, owner of Mei Jong Chicken Rice Shop branch 2, stated that the incident has heavily impacted the business. The coffee shop area and all coffee-making equipment were damaged, along with part of the chicken rice shop. The estimated damage is as high as 1.3 million baht. Sales have dropped 40% since the store was closed for a week for repairs. He has already spent 200,000 baht of personal funds to reopen. The incomplete shop condition and customers' safety concerns have severely affected business, making it feel like starting over.
Recently, negotiations with the insurance company and the offender concluded with an agreement on compensation. The insurance will pay 700,000 baht within 15 days from 4 Sep 2026. The offender will pay 600,000 baht but requested to pay 5,000 baht monthly over about 10 years. Although this is not ideal, the owner has accepted it since there is no alternative. Despite compensation, it is not enough to cover losses. They must rebuild trust with customers and restart the business.
He wished to warn others about the severe damage caused by drunk driving, which affects many beyond just oneself. The shop has employees and people to care for, and closing for repairs with an incomplete store has caused sales to fall significantly. This is a heavy burden, as they must take responsibility for something they did not cause. He asked for no sympathy, emphasizing their commitment to rebuild the shop and regain customers.